Happy hump-day, time to strengthen and stretch!
As I was plotting (or “Pilating” in this case) what I should write about next, it seemed like I should reform back to what I know best…
Let’s talk PILATES.
Pilates was one of the first non-elliptical workouts I tried in college and really, ever since then, I’ve been completely hooked. Now I find myself going back every week for more!
Think of it as a faster-paced yoga or deep breathing cardio barre class combined with gymnastic moves that will make you think you’re auditioning for Cirque Du Soleil.
It’s about focus, core, concentration and control … and the best news is? You get to lie down while doing it! Well, most of the time.
ZzzzZzzz…
There are two ways to go about “Pilating”: on a reformer (a moving bed contraption) or on the ground (they call it “floor Pilates”).
I opt for the reformer as it’s fun springing around and feeling slightly weightless – a rare moment for me– BUT floor Pilates is equally as popular, and the good news is you can do it wherever, whenever! All you need is a yoga mat.
Whichever way you choose, both will get you tight and toned with lots of different levels of band movements. You can go at your own pace, with your own weight, and the rest of your classmates or workout buddies can do the same.
Where to begin? Here are my top three go-tos:
- Feet in straps, circles: For this you, as the name suggests, put each of your feet in a strap and then raise up your legs and begin to do circular movements (one foot going one way, the other the opposite). Repeat, repeat, repeat and your inner thighs will be rockin’ and rollin’ quickly!
- Feet in straps, frogs: Same idea, but pretend you’re breast stroking above land, or morphing from a tadpole, with froglike movements. This will fire up your quads and calves. If you’re feeling like a pro (or want a great insta pic), lift your booty up off of the mat/reformer and kick away from there!
- Jump board: If you’re looking for some cardio, here’s where you’ll get it. This move requires a reformer and is like trampoline-ing while lying down. You can change up the reformer’s undercarriage spring weights depending on the muscles you want to target. Begin jumping up and down for as long as you can take it! The ski jump move (where you are flipping your torso and legs over side to side, as though you were headed down a double black mogul hill) is a personal fave. Hand weights can be added to get your arms in the game as well.
Check out Pilates studios or classes in a local gym near you! You’d be surprised by how many are offered and, usually, you’ll get a great deal as a first-timer (who knows, it could even be free!). I always love a good “try us!” gym guest pass while traveling…
I’d love to hear your reviews. For now I’m going to get back to stretching out the aftermath of this week’s Pilates stretch (an oxymoron I know).
With sore everything and eight pounds to go until the engagement party!
XOXO,
Alex